"In this vivid narrative, Eric Walther brings to life the passionate and violent debate over slavery that shook the American Republic to its foundations in the 1850s. Rendering understandable the complex events of this period while avoiding simplification, Walther's lively and compelling text recaptures the tenor of the political upheaval of this most critical decade." (Brooks D. Simpson, Arizona State University, Author of Ulysses S. Grant: Triumph over Adversity, 1822-1865)

"With The The Shattering of the Union, Eric Walther has given us an engaging, fast-paced narrative covering the last decade of the American journey to Civil War. Drawing on the best recent scholarship and his own insights, Walther's volume is a quick read that is perfect for classroom use. It is a compelling tale, well told." (Lacy Ford, Professor of History, University of South Carolina)

"Eric Walther's The Shattering of the Union is an accessible, very readable account of the turbulent 1850s. This lively survey juxtaposes political, social, and cultural history with the voices and stories of the famous and obscure in ways that should appeal to many different kinds of readers." (George C. Rable, Charles Summersell Professor of Southern History, University of Alabama, Author of Fredricksburg! Fredricksburg!, winner of the 2003 Lincoln Prize)